In the spring, we put a call out for applicants to join the YPC Advisory Board. We had a great response and were astounded by the professionalism and dedication to YPC displayed by our members! Meet our five new members for this year:

Christina Cucinotta, Senior Coordinator, Athena Global Advisors

What is the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received? 

The best piece of advice I’ve received since becoming a professional has been to take advantage of every opportunity. As a young professional, it’s important to have a “yes” mindset and to diversify your skillsets and expand your knowledge in your industry. Always embrace the opportunity to learn from others as you build your career!  

What is your favorite part of being a YPC member?  

This is cliché, but my favorite part of being a YPC member is the people. Everyone is incredibly welcoming, and it has been great to get to know such a talented and diverse group of people. I’m looking forward to working with the Advisory Board to share my insights and create meaningful experiences that foster connection amongst young professionals in Philadelphia.  

What is your favorite part of living and working in Philadelphia?  

Philadelphia is such a hub for business, so it has been incredible to have the opportunity to work at the center of it all. With such a vibrant young professional landscape, it’s been great to meet people at networking and social events around the city and to take advantage of the many great restaurants to mingle with coworkers and enjoy professional lunches.  

Briana Cunningham, Senior Public Affairs Specialist, Independence Blue Cross

What is the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received?

Get involved — say yes to projects, try new things, and show up to events. It gives you an opportunity to explore who you are as a professional and what your career goals are. It also opens doors that you may not have known you were looking for.

What is your favorite part of being a YPC member?

The networking events! I love meeting new young professionals and exploring the many venues that Philadelphia has to offer.

What is your favorite part of living and working in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia is the perfect balance. It’s a big city with endless opportunities and a vibrant culture, while still maintaining a feeling of community. I’ve learned that I thrive best in that type of environment.

Rachel Kurlander, Associate Director, Office of Government Affairs, University of Pennsylvania

What is the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received?

The best piece of professional advice I’ve received is to not compare your personal career path to others’ paths or success. I’ve come to learn that success means something different to everyone, and that my own idea of success is constantly changing as my goals and priorities evolve naturally. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by so many people whose accomplishments I admire, but never at the expense of my own self-worth. 

What is your favorite part of being a YPC member? 

The community! There aren’t many spaces that are created by and for young people, especially not in professional contexts. It’s affirming to belong to a group that’s both welcoming and empowering. I’ve connected with so many people through YPC whom I may not have met otherwise, and before every program or event, I’m most excited about the chance to build new relationships. 

What is your favorite part of living and working in Philadelphia?

Having moved to Philadelphia just over two years ago, my favorite part of living and working here is how easy it’s been to find comfort, routine, and community both in my personal and professional lives. I may be a long way off from fully earning my Philly stripes, but I did cry after the Super Bowl loss. 

Mandisa Thomas, Program Coordinator, Center for Social Impact Strategy, University of Pennsylvania

What is the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received?  

It’s never too late and you’re never too old to change careers. I have seen family members blossom in their career later in life.  

What is your favorite part of being a YPC member?  

I enjoy the diverse network of young professionals. I do not regularly interact with other young professionals in different industries, and YPC offers insightful professional development events held at cool event spaces around the city. Also, I’ve had the chance to meet other University of Pennsylvania colleagues at YPC events! Penn is huge, and I rarely have an opportunity to meet others in different schools. 

What is your favorite part of living and working in Philadelphia?   

I am Philly, born and raised, but I have lived in other cities and out of the country. Philly will always hold a special place in my heart. Being a foodie, I love exploring the food scene here – there are always new restaurants and various cuisines to try. Also, the local shops in Philly bring a unique flavor, such as my local bookstore Uncle Bobbie’s Bookstore, and my family’s plant wellness boutique, Plant & People, in West Philly – and I can’t forget about the cultural festivals during the summertime, like Odunde, one of the oldest African American street festivals I have attended since childhood.     

Trey Miller, Government and Regulatory Affairs Specialist, Ballard Spahr LLP

What is the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received? 

Don’t take no for an answer. Figure out a way to make it happen. 

What is your favorite part of being a YPC member?  

My favorite part about being a YPC member is opportunity to connect with other Young Professionals in the City. 

What is your favorite part of living and working in Philadelphia?  

My favorite part about living and working in Philadelphia is the energy and the “get it done” mindset that the city has.